The five best budget GPS devices

GPS units have not always been the most affordable devices. Start piling on extras like Bluetooth connectivity, media playback and the SUNA Traffic Message Channel on top of basic navigation features and these units can reach $800-$900. Of course, not everyone needs the latest and greatest, so if you are on a budget or need GPS to add that little kick to your MacGyver-style adventures, here are some of the cheaper options.

If you view life in widescreen, the nuvi 265W is a good choice but for everyone else Garmin's basic GPS unit is a great selection. The unit boasts mid-range features like text-to-speech while still keeping a comparatively low price point. Its simplicity makes it a great device for those who simply want to get from A to B without any hassle.

For a device with a little more polish, Mio's latest budget offering is a stylish unit in terms both of design and software. The addition of NavPix georeferencing is a great option for more adventurous users, and you can add Traffic Message Channel access through an optional antenna.

Navigon is relatively new to the Australian market but that doesn't mean it can't compete with more established companies. The 2110max accomplishes this well, with SUNA compatibility, lane assistance and an interface that minimises the learning curve. Unfortunately, there is no text-to-speech, which may be a deal-breaker for some; lane assistance is sure to aid drivers on those tricky highways, however.

Laser's Navig8r offers barebones GPS functionality at a low price. Users won't be completely without bells and whistles, with the unit boasting extremely detailed mapping based on local council data and a text-to-speech voice tailored to the Australian market. The Laser is a good option for navigation with pinpoint accuracy.

The TomTom One has long been the weapon of choice for many consumers when it comes to budget GPS devices, and this fourth edition continues the winning formula. The device is small in comparison to most other units, so those who need to focus on the screen may want to opt for something more along the lines of the XL. However, the One is still a cheap, slimline option.

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